Thailand, as the world's largest rubber producer, produced 4.8 million tons of rubber in 2022, accounting for 33% of the global rubber production. It is also the second largest exporter of rubber products in the world after China, according to the Director of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office of the Thai Ministry of Commerce. But currently, Thai rubber products are facing comprehensive challenges, whether it is the geopolitical issues of global polarization or the increasing emphasis on self-sufficiency among countries around the world.
In terms of the environment, sustainable production of rubber is a major global trend, in which producers are responsible for society and the environment, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting natural resources, and safeguarding the welfare of workers and communities. Therefore, sustainable rubber production is becoming increasingly important as consumers shift towards environmentally friendly products.
In addition, the trend of using recycled rubber is also increasing. By reusing it and converting it into new products, waste and resource intensive natural rubber production are reduced, as the rubber production process requires a large amount of water to clean. If not treated properly, the generated wastewater will have adverse effects on society and the environment. Many companies have developed recycled rubber products.
In terms of marketing, it is necessary to actively carry out marketing, focus on the specific needs of each market, conduct market research, collect and analyze consumer demand data, and identify opportunities and challenges. In addition to Thailand's existing main export markets of China, the United States, Malaysia, and Japan, attention should also be paid to emerging markets such as Middle Eastern countries, India, Africa, and Latin America.
In 2022, Thailand exported rubber and products worth 217.730.7 billion US dollars, with the top five major exporting countries being China worth 31.472.7 billion US dollars, Thailand worth 18.824.2 billion US dollars, Germany worth 17.459.9 billion US dollars, the United States worth 14.656.6 billion US dollars, and Japan worth 10.712.2 billion US dollars.